Mains Voltage Supply Problems - Symptoms, Causes & Solutions

In today’s modern technologically advanced society, technology is no longer simply a tool for survival, but rather has been turned into a means of mass communication and entertainment - making it easier than ever to connect with people.

While there is no doubting the benefit that the electronic and digital ages have brought to society, the reality of all these advancements is that the availability and quality of power needed to run these electric-powered machines and devices has not kept pace.

We list below some of the more common voltage problems that you are likely to encounter and their likely effect on your sensitive electrical and electronic equipment:

Over Voltages & Power Surges

Over-Voltage & Surges: are short duration increases in the mains supply voltage which generally last several cycles.

Formal Definition – Voltage above 110% of the rated voltage for 1 or more cycles.

Typical Symptoms- When surges occur equipment can suffer from premature failure. The high voltage causes wear and tear and general component degradation. This is often unnoticeable until failure occurs. Unusual heat output can be an early sign of problems ahead.

Blackouts & Mains Failure

Blackout and Mains Failures: when the mains supply fails completely this is known as a total mains failure or blackout.

Formal Definition– Loss of incoming mains supply

Typical Symptoms - Complete disruption of equipment operation. A break in the mains supply of only several milliseconds is sufficient enough to crash, lock or reset many of the components that make up a typical data or voice processing IP network, such as PC, terminal, console, server, PBX, printer, modem, hub or router.

Common Causes - Storms, lightning, wind and utility equipment failure. Typically occurs as a result of loss of power, a mechanical failure, or overloading by consumers.

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